Matrilysin is believed to have a role in tumor progression. Its expression correlates with the occurrence of colorectal cancer. We have examined the expression of matrilysin mRNA in various colorectal disorders and its localization using RT-PCR and in situ hybridization. We have also examined whether Matrilysin is induced by cell to matrix interaction. Matrilysin mRNA was detected in all adenoma tissues examined, whereas none was detectable in hyperplastic polyps, mildly inflamed regions of ulcerative colitis or normal colon tissues, and its message was localized in adenoma cells themselves. In addition, levels of enzyme activities of matrilysin were lower in adenomas compared with cancers in casein zymography. Matrilysin mRNA was induced by immobilized truncated fibronectin or RGD peptide. Thus, matrilysin may play an important role in colorectal carcinogenesis.